When athletes step onto the court at the Canada Winter Games, they are supported by many people behind the scenes who make the competition possible. Officials play a critical role in creating a fair, positive, and memorable experience for everyone involved.
For Shari Olsen from Fort Smith, the opportunity to serve as an umpire at the Canada Winter Games is another exciting chapter in her officiating journey. This will be Shari’s third Canada Winter Games, and she continues to bring her passion, experience, and love for sport to the table tennis community. “I love multi sport games,” Shari shared. “Not only do athletes get to compete in their sport, they can cheer for their friends’ sports as well.”
For Shari, the Canada Winter Games are special because they bring together athletes, coaches, officials, and communities from across the country. The level of competition provides a unique experience for everyone involved. “The level of competition at the Canada Games is definitely a step up from local competitions,” she said.
The Power of Sport and Sportsmanship
Over her years at the Canada Winter Games, one of Shari’s favourite parts has been seeing the positive spirit that surrounds the event. “Sportsmanship!” she said when asked about her favourite memories. “Everyone is so encouraging to their competitors.” She also enjoys watching athletes grow throughout the week. “Seeing the athletes improve over the week is amazing.”
For Shari, sport is about more than results. It is about learning, connecting with others, and creating experiences that last beyond the competition.
Continuing to Give Back Through Officiating
As an umpire, Shari enjoys that every event provides a chance to continue learning. “I think there is something to learn at every event,” she explained. She also recognizes the importance of volunteers and officials in making sport possible. “We need to have people volunteering their time or these events will not happen.”
That commitment to giving back is one of the reasons Shari continues to stay involved in Table Tennis.
Representing Fort Smith and the Northwest Territories
Coming from Fort Smith, Shari understands the importance of building opportunities in smaller communities. “It means so much,” she said about representing her community. “Fort Smith is a small community with limited access to many things. Inspiring people to get involved builds capacity.”
Shari also recognizes the work happening to grow table tennis across the Northwest Territories. “Thor has worked hard at building interest in this sport and I want to support him as much as I can.” Her involvement is another example of how volunteers and officials help create stronger sport systems across the North.
A Message to Future Officials
For anyone thinking about becoming involved in officiating, Shari’s advice is simple: “Do it!” “When you try new things, doors open,” she shared. “It is a great way to see other places and even learn more about other cultures.”
From Fort Smith to the Canada Winter Games, Shari continues to show the impact one volunteer can have on a sport community. Table Tennis North is proud to celebrate Shari’s achievement and grateful for the dedication she continues to bring to Table Tennis in the Northwest Territories.
Congratulations, Shari, and thank you for everything you do for our sport!